Location: Mecosta County, MI | Metro: Isabella County, MI
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $790 |
| 1 Bedroom | $830 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,560 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,027 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,189 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,298 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $140,576 | 0.72% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP 49305, Barryton, MI, hinges on the interplay between rental yields and market stability. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $970, while the market rent stands at $913. This indicates that properties in Barryton can command slightly above-market rents, suggesting a moderate yield potential. However, the median home value of $141,140 places it in a middle-tier affordability range, which can influence both rental demand and the potential for property appreciation.
Stability is assessed through several factors, including the percentage of renters, the number of days on the market (DOM), and the average household income. In Barryton, only 13.1% of residents are renters, which is relatively low compared to urban areas. This low rental rate suggests a less stable cash flow due to potentially lower demand for rentals. Additionally, the average household income of $51,875 is modest, indicating that tenants might be sensitive to economic fluctuations and could struggle with rent increases.
The lack of data on days on the market (DOM) makes it challenging to assess how quickly properties can be leased out, but the combination of a slightly above-market FMR and a low renter population suggests a balanced market rather than a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market. Properties here would likely provide steady, though not exceptionally high, cash flow. For landlords and small-portfolio investors, Barryton represents an opportunity for consistent returns rather than rapid capital gains.
To summarize, ZIP 49305 is best classified as a steady-cashflow zone. The slightly higher-than-market FMR of $970 versus the actual market rent of $913 provides a modest yield advantage. However, the low percentage of renters (13.1%) and modest household incomes ($51,875) imply a market with less volatility and a more stable tenant base, albeit with limited growth potential.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). Demographics from U.S. Census (2024).
About FMR: Fair Market Rent (FMR) is used to determine payment standards for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, initial renewal rents for some expiring project-based Section 8 contracts, and rent ceilings for HOME Investment Partnerships.